HACKENSACK, NJ — An off-duty Hackensack police officer who was patronizing an Essex County Wawa saw a local cop in trouble and sprang in to help, officials said Thursday.
On Aug. 22, according to the Hackensack police, off-duty Detective Michael Reo noticed a Fairfield police officer involved in a "rapidly escalating encounter during a motor vehicle stop."
Reo headed to the street to help Fairfield Police Corporal Jeffrey Dean with an "uncooprative suspect," Hackensack police said on social media.
A loaded handgun was later found inside the suspect's waistband, Hackensack police said.
Fairfield police shed light on the incident with a dramatic video on Facebook (see below), showing Dean asking a motorcycle rider why he doesn't have tags on his vehicle.
Dean asks if he has weapons, and the motorcyclist shows a knife, but doesn't drop it right away.
As the conversation escalates and the officer attempts to arrest the motorcyclist, a struggle ensues. Other officers arrive to help.
Marcelo Valencia-Solis, 44, of Hackensack was charged with aggravated assault on a police officer, gang criminality, resisting arrest, tampering with public records, unlawful possession of a handgun, and unlawful possession of a switchblade, the Fairfield police said.
Fairfield Chief Anthon Manna commended Dean and Reo.
Hackensack police said, on social media, "Detective Reo's actions are a powerful reminder that the law enforcement family looks out for one another—on duty or off duty. We are proud of his quick response, courage, and commitment to helping a fellow officer and keeping our communities safe."
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